The Osun State Handball team has officially secured a spot in the 2025 National Sports Festival after a hard-fought 30-26 victory over Team Oyo in the Southwest Zonal Elimination Playoffs held at the Ilaji Games Resort, Oyo State.
Under the leadership of Coach Taiwo Joshua Aogo, Osun demonstrated their dominance with back-to-back wins, having previously edged out Team Ondo 22-20 in a closely contested match on Monday.
This latest triumph guarantees their participation in the upcoming Gateway Games in Ogun State. The team will now turn their attention to the zonal final against Team Lagos, set to take place today, February 27, 2025, at 8 AM.
Reacting to the victory, Chairman of the Osun State Handball Association, Mr. Abu Adamu, commended the players for their resilience and determination. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Osun State Sports Council, led by General Manager Mr. Rotimi Dumoye, and appreciated the Osun State Government, under Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke and Deputy Governor, for their commitment to revitalizing sports in the state.
Additionally, he extended gratitude to the coaching staff, key officials of the Osun State Sports Council—including Director of Coaching and Training, Mr. Ademola Daini; Director of Finance, Mr. Olaosebikan; Director of Organization, Mrs. Ronke Ogunbamiwo; Chief PRO, Mrs. Moradeyo; and Mrs. Adejoke Osho—as well as the Osun State Medical and Media teams for their crucial contributions.
Regarded as the top handball team in the southwest and one of Nigeria’s best, Osun now shifts its focus to the highly anticipated final against Team Lagos, aiming to further cement their status as regional champions.
